For all those people who do not reply, the council is required by law to send two reminder letters followed by a visit to the property in order to collect the necessary information. In 2017, this process cost local taxpayers £20,000.

Electoral Registration Officer Colin Carmichael said: “It is important to make sure you are registered to vote. If you are not, you will not be able to vote at forthcoming elections and it could put your credit rating at risk, which means you may find it difficult to get a loan or mortgage.

“Please help us to keep our costs down by replying to the form as quickly as possible. This will remove the need to send reminders or organise a visit.”